Montenegro and Italy are strengthening energy cooperation through new infrastructure projects, focusing on electricity interconnection and renewable energy development, according to a meeting between Montenegrin Minister of Energy and Mining Admir Šahmanović and Italian Minister of Energy Gilberto Pichetto Fratin at the Gastech 2025 conference in Milan.
The ministers highlighted the strategic importance of a second undersea electricity cable, which would further establish Montenegro as a regional energy hub. Montenegro’s grid is expected to be ready to accommodate the cable by the end of 2025, enabling faster implementation of new renewable projects. The first undersea cable has already positioned Montenegro as a regional leader and generated €42 million in revenue from cross-border capacity leasing in 2024.
A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between Montenegro and Italy in the energy sector has been agreed upon. The MoU aims to support market integration, promote Montenegro’s inclusion in the European electricity system, facilitate knowledge exchange, and enhance collaboration between Italian and Montenegrin stakeholders. Its signing is expected soon and is seen as a milestone for joint renewable energy and transmission infrastructure projects.
Both ministers emphasized opportunities to deepen cooperation, noting Italy’s interest in additional energy capacity. Montenegro’s participation at Gastech 2025 underscores its commitment to being an active participant in the global energy dialogue and advancing strategic projects that strengthen regional energy security and investment.
